Brendan Howlin
Question:28 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will make a statement in relation to his plans for Comhairle, including its funding and distribution around the State. [6414/99]
Vol. 501 No. 5
28 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will make a statement in relation to his plans for Comhairle, including its funding and distribution around the State. [6414/99]
The Government has decided to establish a new agency, to be known as Comhairle, which will be responsible for the provision of independent information, advice and advocacy services throughout the country. This new agency, which will operate under the aegis of my Department, will combine the current functions of the National Social Service Board, NSSB, with relevant functions of the National Rehabilitation Board, NRB. The necessary legislation is currently being prepared and I hope to publish this at an early date.
This move towards a new integrated agency follows a Government decision to replace the NRB with a new National Disability Authority and to transfer certain functions to a number of existing agencies or Government Departments.